Creamy Spinach Mushroom Orzo
Highlighted under: Healthy & Light
I absolutely love making this Creamy Spinach Mushroom Orzo! It has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen, combining rich flavors with a wonderfully creamy texture. The orzo is perfectly cooked, enveloped in a luscious sauce that’s just the right thickness. I always choose fresh spinach and sautéed mushrooms, adding depth and earthiness to the dish. When I'm in need of comfort food, this dish never fails to satisfy. It's simple yet impressive, making it great for both weeknight dinners and gatherings.
When I first crafted this Creamy Spinach Mushroom Orzo, I was looking for a dish that would combine ease of preparation with impressive flavor. The secret to its creaminess lies in a mix of cream cheese and vegetable broth, which melds beautifully and creates a mouthwatering sauce. As the orzo cooks, it absorbs all those flavors, resulting in a delightful bowl that feels both indulgent and comforting.
One of my favorite tips for this recipe is to sauté the mushrooms until they're golden brown before adding in the spinach. This adds a layer of depth that really enhances the overall flavor profile. Trust me, it's a game changer! You'll find yourself making this dish over and over again.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, comforting texture that soothes the soul
- Fresh spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition
- Quick and easy, perfect for busy weeknights
Ingredients
For the Orzo
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Gather all your ingredients before you start for a smooth cooking experience!
Instructions
Cook the Orzo
In a medium pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Then, add the sliced mushrooms, cooking until they're golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Combine the Ingredients
Stir in the chopped spinach and cooked orzo. Add in the cream cheese and Parmesan, stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is well mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Once everything is combined, serve hot and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute orzo with any small pasta shape, but the cooking time may vary.
→ Can I make this recipe vegan?
Absolutely! Use vegan cream cheese and ensure the vegetable broth is vegan-friendly.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
→ Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, feel free to add any vegetables you like! Peas, bell peppers, or zucchini would work wonderfully.
Creamy Spinach Mushroom Orzo
I absolutely love making this Creamy Spinach Mushroom Orzo! It has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen, combining rich flavors with a wonderfully creamy texture. The orzo is perfectly cooked, enveloped in a luscious sauce that’s just the right thickness. I always choose fresh spinach and sautéed mushrooms, adding depth and earthiness to the dish. When I'm in need of comfort food, this dish never fails to satisfy. It's simple yet impressive, making it great for both weeknight dinners and gatherings.
What You'll Need
For the Orzo
- 1 cup orzo pasta
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a medium pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Then, add the sliced mushrooms, cooking until they're golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the chopped spinach and cooked orzo. Add in the cream cheese and Parmesan, stirring until the cheese is melted and everything is well mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Extra Tips
- For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 54g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 12g